1952 Fiat 500 Belvedere

The inexpensive 'Cinquecento' was a massed-produced vehicle that was fitted with several innovative mechanical features, courtesy of long-time Fiat engineer, Dante Giacosa. The Topolino has an independent front suspension, four-speed transmission with 3rd and 4th gear synchromesh and hydraulic brakes. Top speed was in the neighborhood of 56 mph. After World War II, the 500B was given an overhead valve engine, and a more modern front end came with 1949's 500C models. The 500C was available as a two-door coupe as well as a coupe with a full sunroof called the 'cabriolet' and a three-door station wagon. The first wagon, a 500B, was called the 'Giardiniera' and was a traditional Woodie. In 1951, it was joined by the all-steel Belvedere.

This Belvedere model with chassis number 440902, was imported to the United States in the 1970s. It is powered by a 569cc four-cylinder overhead valve engine fitted with 2-barrel Weber carburetors. The 16.5 horsepower produced by the engine is sent to the rear wheels via a four-speed manual transmission. There are four-wheel drum brakes and a live-rear axle suspension.

In 2011, the car was offered for sale at the Gooding & Company auction in Scottsdale, Arizona. The car was estimated to sell for $25,000 - $35,000 and offered without reserve. As bidding came to a close, the car had been sold for the sum of $45,100 including buyer's premium.

By Daniel Vaughan | Mar 2011